Empowering Women in the Green Economy: A Dialogue for Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities

As Women’s Month draws to a close, a significant event is taking place to promote women’s empowerment in the green economy. On August 25, 2023, MEC Thabo Meeko of the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) is organizing a one-day dialogue for women in the green economy at the Maria Moroka Nature Resort in Thaba Nchu.

Acknowledging the Need for Progress

While South Africa has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights, gender inequality persists, with more women than men facing poverty and unemployment. The Women in Green Economy Dialogue aims to accelerate socio-economic opportunities for women and address this persistent challenge.

A Platform for Learning and Collaboration

The event will bring together a hundred businesswomen from all five districts of the province to discuss topics such as the linkages between the environment and the economy, funding opportunities within the green economy, and success stories and best practices by Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs). Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and learn how to access funding opportunities for green projects.

MEC Meeko emphasizes the need for aggressive promotion of learning opportunities that empower women in business to initiate green projects, share expertise for innovation within the energy sector, and create much-needed jobs through green economic initiatives.

Building a Strong Foundation for Empowerment and Advancement

The dialogue aims to create linkages beyond the event for future economic participation and enhance the lives of women. By establishing eco-friendly human settlements, it can provide a dignified standard of living, combat climate change, and lead to sustainable transport usage, renewable energy, and waste management.

MEC Meeko will set the tone for the dialogue, outlining the government’s vision for the green economy. The event serves as an essential platform for women to network, learn, and share their experiences in the green economy. By fostering a sense of unity and collaboration, the dialogue aims to build a strong foundation for women’s empowerment and advancement in the green economy, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

The Women in Green Economy Dialogue presents an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs to come together, exchange ideas, and enhance their knowledge in the field of green economy. Through this initiative, the government and MEC Meeko hope to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for women in the green economy, addressing gender inequalities and fostering socio-economic development. The event is open to media attendance, ensuring that its message of empowerment and progress reaches a broader audience.